William & Mary football coach Jimmye Laycock opened spring practice recently with a slight change in gameplan. For years, his players had been involved in community events, visiting hospitals, working at schools, etc., though usually as individuals or in small groups.

“Coach said he wanted us to do something as a team,” quarterback Brent Caprio said. “He said he even had a specific charity in mind.”

That charity is Avalon, a center for women and children that has served the Greater Williamsburg area for more than 30 years. Its list of services not only supports victims of domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault, but educates the community in an effort to end relationship violence.

On Sunday, March 18, from 1-5 p.m., the football team will sponsor a car wash and wish-list drive to benefit Avalon at three local businesses: American Pride Automotive (5406 Airport Road), Wasabi Oriental Buffet (1203 Richmond Road) and Exxon Mobile Gas Station (6446 Richmond Road).

Prepaid coupons are available for purchase for $5 from any William & Mary football player, or supporters can pay for the car washes at any of the locations during the event.

“We’re hoping to raise between $4,000 and $5,000,” Caprio said. “In addition to selling pre-paids, we’re starting to get some donations from alumni.”

In addition to raising money for Avalon, the team will also collect "wish list" items for the center. Desirable items include paper towels, toilet paper, toothpaste, garbage bags, cleaning products and dry laundry detergent.

All proceeds from the event go directly to Avalon. Anyone wishing to pay by check can make it out directly to Avalon.

“We’re calling this the ‘inaugural’ car wash for a reason,” Caprio said. “Hopefully, this will become an annual event, an annual way for this football team to give something back to the community.”

Any inquiries about the event may be made to the William & Mary football office, in care of Zbig Kepa at 757-221-3376.